Bone density tests can find osteoporosis. The doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. The doctor may suspect osteoporosis or think you’re at a high risk for it. If so, tests may include:

Bone mineral density
(BMD)
measures your bone mass. Then, it’s compared to a healthy 30 year old adult. It may also be compared to the normal bone mass of someone your age. This is called a Z score. BMD results let you know if your bone density is in a normal range or not.

The doctor will consider your test results and other factors that raise your risk. If needed, a plan to prevent or treat the disease is made.

Central
or
peripheral QCT
—measures at the lower arm, wrist, finger or heel

Blood and urine tests
—To test levels of calcium and vitamin D. Other substances are made when bone is formed or broken down. These can also be tested. The results can tell how fast the body is breaking down the bone.

Bone
biopsy
—Done in certain cases to check for other causes of bone disease.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.